Chapter 29– The Path of Learning
Chapter – Paths of Power
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A New Chapter in the Academy
Morning light streamed through the grand windows of Orion Academy, illuminating the pristine marble floors and high-arched ceilings. The academy was alive with the murmurs of students, the energy in the air charged with anticipation.
Today was a defining moment.
The day of elective selection.
Within the S-Class lecture hall, the brightest and most promising students of the academy gathered, waiting for the lesson to begin. Discussions filled the air, some voices confident, others uncertain.
At the front of the hall, Professor Edgar Reinhardt—a tall, sharp-eyed man with silver hair and a perfectly ironed suit—stood with an air of quiet authority. His reputation as one of the academy's most experienced instructors preceded him, and when he spoke, people listened.
With a casual flick of his wrist, a holographic list of subjects projected itself in the air behind him, letters shimmering with an arcane glow.
He adjusted his glasses and cleared his throat.
"Today," he began, his voice calm yet firm, "you will be selecting your specialized subjects—courses that will not only refine your strengths but also shape your future roles in battle, society, and beyond."
The classroom fell into silence, students giving the full weight of their attention to the professor.
"Your core studies—Swordsmanship, Mana Control, and Theory—will remain mandatory, but your electives will be the deciding factor in your combat development."
Professor Reinhardt glanced at the gathered students before gesturing toward the display.
"Choose wisely."
The list expanded, revealing an extensive array of subjects.
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Available Specializations
1. Aura Control – The ability to reinforce one's body and weapons with internal energy, essential for warriors and melee fighters.
2. Magic Theory & Spellcrafting – The study of mana fundamentals, spell construction, and advanced casting techniques.
3. Alchemy – Potion-making, material refinement, and the creation of magical enhancements for combat.
4. Beast Taming – The ability to form contracts with magical beasts, train them, and wield their power in battle.
5. Necromancy – The manipulation of death mana, raising and commanding the undead.
6. Archery & Precision Combat – Mastery of ranged combat, including bows, crossbows, and firearms.
7. Spearmanship & Polearm Arts – The disciplined use of spears, glaives, and polearms in battle.
8. Dagger & Assassin Techniques – The art of stealth, dagger combat, and assassination techniques.
9. Smithing & Enchanting – The craft of forging and imbuing weapons and armor with magical properties.
10. Healing & Support Magic – The study of restoration spells and battlefield support.
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Whispers and Choices
The moment the list was revealed, the classroom erupted into murmurs as students debated their choices.
For many, the decision was obvious—dictated by family legacy or personal strengths.
Alicia von Rosenheim, the fire-wielding noble, predictably chose Aura Control and Magic Theory—an expected path for a warrior-mage hybrid.
Leonhardt Valerian, the protagonist, as expected, picked Spearmanship, Swordsmanship, and Magic Theory. A combination as ridiculous as his natural talent.
Seraphina Everfrost, the noble heiress of a northern lineage, was drawn to Magic Theory and Beast Taming, likely to enhance her frost-based abilities.
Sylvara Nightwhisper, the elven archer, picked Archery & Spellcrafting, her dexterous fingers made for the bow.
Reynard Faulkner, the dark-haired noble with an unsettling aura, casually selected Necromancy, earning side-glances from his classmates.
Then, there was Alden Blackwood.
Sitting in the third row, arms folded, sunglasses on, he leaned back in his chair, unbothered.
He wasn't choosing based on prestige or nobility. He wasn't trying to fit into society's mold.
He was choosing for survival.
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Alden's Decision
"Aura Control is non-negotiable."
Without it, he wouldn't be able to properly utilize his sword techniques. Aura was the foundation of weapon arts—an absolute necessity for melee combat.
"Magic Theory will refine my mana control… even if I don't have an affinity."
Most would say it was pointless for someone with no elemental talent to study magic, but they were short-sighted. Magic Theory wasn't just about casting spells—it was about understanding mana itself.
And then there was Beast Taming.
Alden's gaze lingered on the option.
To most, it was an unremarkable subject, a niche skill meant for beastmasters and summoners.
But he knew better.
In the game's storyline, this class contained a hidden treasure—a beast egg that, if acquired early, could grow into an SS-ranked companion.
It wasn't about companionship—it was about having another trump card.
[So, you want a pet now?] Kurenai's voice echoed in his mind, tinged with amusement.
"Not a pet. A weapon."
With a faint smirk, Alden finalized his choices.
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[Selected: Aura Control, Magic Theory, and Beast Taming.]
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The Murmurs Begin
Professor Reinhardt collected the forms, glancing at each selection with a neutral expression. Then, with a simple nod, he said:
"This decision will shape your journey at the academy. Remember—true power is not simply brute strength. It is the ability to adapt, to overcome, and to wield knowledge like a blade."
As the lists were confirmed, murmurs began to spread through the classroom.
"Alden Blackwood took Beast Taming?"
"He also picked Magic Theory… but doesn't he have no affinity?"
"He somehow got into S-Class, despite being disowned. And now, he's trying to contract magical beasts?"
"And what's with the sunglasses? Does he think he's some kind of villain?"
Alden tilted his head slightly. He could hear every word, but he didn't react.
Let them wonder. Let them doubt.
Because by the time they realized the truth…
He would be far ahead of them all.